The effort was announced Wednesday and is called "Leaders to ReBuild Detroit."

The nonprofit's initiative will focus on an east side area called Morningside Commons. One aim is to help at least 500 families by 2014 through house construction, rehabilitation, critical repairs, and energy-efficiency upgrades and weatherization projects. Additionally, the families will get financial literacy training, homeownership workshops and community security initiatives.

General Motors Chairman and CEO has already donated $1 million to the project.

"A strong America is built on strong communities, and building them starts with one hammer, one nail and one person who cares – from there, it's contagious," Akerson said. "My wife, Karin, and I want to see this effort to rebuild Detroit catch on, spread out and draw scores more volunteers and millions more in contributions."

The effort is part of Habitat for Humanity's statewide $225 million ReBuild Michigan campaign.